The “Real” Wild West
Famous for its geothermal hot springs and year-round outdoor activities, Glenwood Springs is a charming destination with scenic trails and dynamic entertainment in a true Wild West setting.
Canyon Country
Nestled in the rugged Glenwood Canyon, surrounded by the Rocky Mountains and White River National Forest, is the town of Glenwood Springs. The town once boomed to life as a mining settlement called “Defiance”, and has now grown into a breathtaking wellness destination, with thousands of visitors coming to experience its healing hot springs, historic hotels, and vibrant local eateries.
Teeming with wildlife and rich in picturesque views, Glenwood Springs promises to impress with its majestic red-rock canyons and awe-inspiring mountain views.
Sights and Activities
Make the most of your time in Glenwood Springs. Learn more about the sights, activities, and natural wonders to explore in and around this destination, as well as the rail route highlights you’ll experience along the way.
Glenwood Canyon
Carved out by the Colorado River, the towering cliffs and lush greenery of Glenwood Canyon are widely considered some of the most beautiful natural features in the United States.
Gore Canyon
Pass through Gore Canyon en route to Glenwood Springs, a rail route highlight known for its challenging rapids and adventurous white-water rafters that can occasionally be spotted on the waters below.
DeBeque Canyon
Discover the scenic beauty of this 15-mile-long narrow canyon that winds its way between the Book Cliffs and the Roan Plateau.
Dining
Visit Glenwood Springs’ cozy cafes, family-friendly eateries, and infamous restaurants, serving up mouthwatering favourites and local flavours.
Shopping
Explore a walkable town and a delightful shopping experience with charming boutiques, local artisans, and one-of-a-kind souvenir shops.
Travel Tips & Recommendations
Make the most of your time in Glenwood Springs with these helpful articles, tips, and recommendations carefully curated by our travel experts.
The Famous Characters of Glenwood Springs Past
From “Buffalo Bill” to President Theodore Roosevelt, Glenwood Springs has a colourful history filled with famous and infamous characters.
Glenwood Springs: The “Real” Wild West
Learn how the Wild West town of Defiance became the world-class wellness resort of Glenwood Springs.
The Road to Today’s Glenwood Springs
Discover how the history of Glenwood Springs lives on in the town today.
Discover Glenwood Springs on Rockies to the Red Rocks
Rockies To The Red Rocks
- Moab
- Glenwood Springs
- Denver
Journey through two days of extraordinary landscapes between Moab, Utah and Denver, Colorado. Take in breathtaking canyons and Colorado’s stunning Rocky Mountains all from the comfort of our glass-dome train.
Board the train in the scenic city of Denver, Colorado, and start heading westward towards Utah. Before long, you’ll be taking in scenic views of the Gross Reservoir Dam and slowly gaining elevation before reaching the Continental Divide.
Follow the Colorado River through rugged landscapes and mesmerizing canyons, including the picturesque Byers and Gore canyons. Inaccessible to most traffic, you’ll take in epic views of canyons carved out over centuries.
End your first day of rail travel in Glenwood Springs, a hidden gem nestled under the shadows of the Rockies. This historic town, once known as ‘Defiance’, is now home to healing hot springs and a true Wild West spirit.
Catch your first glimpse of the 6,800 foot tall Mount Garfield, the highest point of the Book Cliffs.
Follow the river down to Utah and catch glimpses of the sun-soaked Ruby Canyon. The only access to the canyon is by rail - so you’ll get another exclusive look at the red sandstone cliffs that make up the 25-mile long canyon.
Arrive at Moab, known as the adventure capital of Utah and gateway to the Mighty 5 National Parks. From there, you can visit the nearby Arches National Park for a first-hand look at eroded sandstone spires, hoodoos, balanced rocks, and arches.
What’s Included with our Rail Journeys
From the moment you step foot onboard, your journey to Glenwood Springs will be as comfortable as it is unforgettable.
Glass-Dome Coaches
Custom-designed train coaches provide panoramic views of your surroundings. Or, get a bit closer by stepping into the outdoor viewing area.
Regionally-Inspired Dining
Dine on delicious meals served in the comfort of your seat. Enjoy local ingredients and flavours while our onboard Host team takes care of your every need.
All-Daylight Train
See the sights by day, sleep in a hotel at night. There are no sleeper cars onboard – stay in comfortable accommodations at each destination.
World-Class Hospitality
From refilling your wine glass to sharing stories and helping with special requests, our Hosts provide an unforgettable onboard experience.
Start Planning Your Journey
Inspired to learn more about our routes and destinations? Download our digital brochure to start planning an unforgettable journey through the American Southwest.
Explore More Destinations
Discover more must-see destinations along our routes through Western Canada and the American Southwest.
Moab, Utah
Utah's adventure capital and gateway to the Mighty Five National Parks.
Denver, Colorado
Experience 300 annual days of sunshine in Colorado's "Mile-High" city.
Las Vegas, Nevada
Extend your US rail journey to this dazzling oasis in the Nevada desert.
Salt Lake City, Utah
Extend your US rail journey to Utah's capital city at the base of the Wasatch Mountains.
Vancouver, British Columbia
A vibrant metropolis situated against a backdrop of endless mountains and glistening ocean.
Lake Louise, Alberta
A picture-perfect paradise in the heart of the Rockies.
Banff, Alberta
Canada's first National Park and the crown jewel of the Canadian Rocky Mountains.
Jasper, Alberta
A quaint town set beneath mountain peaks in the largest national park in the Canadian Rockies.
